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A Project, called "The Shed" run by Age Uk Tameside in Dukinfield has been looking after a colony of bees since last June and recently harvested their first batch of 40 jars of honey, nearly all of which have been sold.

Proceeds from sales of the foodstuff have been ploughed back into the centre to meet its day to day running costs.

The project is part of Age UK in Tameside and aims to prevent social isolation among men in the over 50s age group.

Team leader, Mike Barlow said that although The Shed mainly focuses on woodwork some of the men had become particularly interested in bee keeping.

He said: “What’s engaging for them is understanding the mechanics of it and the reproduction of the hive.

“They learn about but how to avoid infection in the bees, how to treat them for pests and parastistes and how to protect the hive from vandalism.

“Some men are more into the technical side of things and some enjoy the practical side of going into the hive.”

Mike added that the men will also be making things from the beeswax produced from the colony, including candles and polish.

The centre is free to users and dependent on funding.

If you are interested in getting involved or sponsoring The Shed contact Mike on 0161 368 4974.